What the Ascension Means for Jesus and Christians

After Jesus died and was resurrected, he ascended to the right hand of the Father after remaining with his disciples for 40 days. Though we tend to think of the ascension as an afterthought, in this Seven Minute Seminary, Dr. Steve Seamands reveals how Jesus’ leaving our world was just as crucial as were his life, death, and resurrection.

Read 3 points that his ascension meant for Jesus Christ, and 3 parallel points of significance for his followers:

The ascension means for Jesus:
1) Jesus now experiences the intimacy with the Father he had before coming to earth (John 17:5).
2) Jesus now exercises the fullness of power and authority (Psalm 110:1).
3) Jesus now assumes the posture of an intercessor (Romans 8:34).

The ascension means for Christians:
1) We experience profound intimacy with the Father through the Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14).
2) We exercise power and authority even in the midst of evil and suffering (Luke 4:6).
3) We assume intercession on behalf of others in need (1 Timothy 2:2-4).

Dr. Stephen Seamands is professor of Christian Doctrine at Asbury Theological Seminary, where he has served since 1983. He is also the author of several books including, Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service (InterVarsity Press, 2005), Give Them Christ: Preaching His Incarnation, Crucifixion, Resurrection, Ascension and Return (InterVarsity Press, 2012).

1 COMMENT

Steve, Thanks for this teaching on the Ascension. It is an neglected part of the core beliefs of the Christian faith. I am using your video to begin my Wednesday night teaching on this subject. Thanks for bringing God’s word to our people at University Carillon UMC!
Joe MacLaren